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How to Properly Grind Tungsten Electrodes and Ensure Safety

GTAW, or TIG welding formally known by the American Welding Association, is a welding process that connects metals through an arc established between a non-consumable tungsten electrode and the base material, both of which are protected by an inert gas in the welding zone.

Tungsten: the most important part of TIG welding


In TIG welding, the tungsten electrode is the most important application part. Since its development in 1941, it has been trying to improve performance and performance by adding high melting point elements and physical / chemical properties so that it can withstand the typical working conditions of the process.
As you may have experienced, in TIG welding applications, the arc has a great influence on the welding results. Sometimes it seems that everything is set up for an ideal process, but the end result does not match. Is the welding process improper? Low gasoline coverage? I may be, but it may be because the arc is unstable.

Why do we have an unstable arc?


The most likely cause is the sharpening of the tungsten electrode:

Cause


Unsuitable tungsten sharpening
Insufficient polarity
Very low current insufficient arc length

Problem


Unstable arc

Solution


Grind tungsten at an appropriate angle with a tungsten grinding knife.
It is best to use CCPD (-)
Parameter setting (Amps)
For very high radians, set the length between 2-4 mm from the workpiece
Check for sufficient gas

 

When it comes to correct electrode sharpening, the next queation is usuallly what does correct tungsten electrode sharpening look like?

The key is to know that in addition to affecting the durability of the electrodes, sharpening also affects the welding penetration, arc stability, and especially the welding quality.
A correct sharpening is one that gives tungsten an ideal shape, preventing it from being too sharp, but not blunt. When using tungsten grinders and cutting machines, it is important to know that when using it, the tungsten electrode must be ground parallel to the grinding wheel.
Keep protection when grinding tungsten electrode
Knowing the importance and influence of sharpening in argon tungsten arc welding, you may wonder how to achieve the ideal sharpening? At this point, we must talk about health and the welder's breathing zone.
Sharpening involves the release of harmful particles to the welder, so it is important to know where and how to sharpen.
In the process of sharpening, particles of varying amounts are produced. These particles can penetrate small wounds. Most importantly, they are inhaled through the lungs and digestive system, where they break down and accumulate.
To date, research on tungsten as a carcinogen has produced a variety of results, but recent research has shown that exposure to tungsten concentrations can cause problems with the immune system. The biggest risk is the inhalation of dust, which is the product of sharpening, which is why it is important to use a sharpening system with a "closed process" that always covers the electrodes and protects the welder or worker from excessive contact.
The above information is provided by China tig welding guns suppliers.